unarmed oncolytic herpes simplex virus

Unarmed oHSV (oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus) refers to a modified herpes virus engineered to selectively replicate within and lyse tumor cells without carrying additional therapeutic transgenes (such as cytokines, antibodies, or blocking peptides). In the context of neuro-oncology research, these viruses are designed to exploit the defective antiviral responses and high proliferative rates of glioblastoma cells. While the 'unarmed' version provides a baseline oncolytic effect and stimulates an initial immune response through the release of tumor-associated antigens and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), it is frequently utilized in preclinical and clinical studies as a control or baseline platform to evaluate the added therapeutic benefit of 'armed' variants that express specific proteins to modulate the tumor microenvironment or enhance immune recruitment.

Other names

unarmed viro-immunotherapy